Written in the late 18th Century, Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, or The Magic Flute, is one of the best-loved operas in history. With this as his inspiration, whimsical Danish artist Bjørn Wiinblad created the Sarastro dinnerware collection for Rosenthal.

Each piece in the line features a different scene from the opera depicted in relief, so they all sport exceptionally wide rims.

The genius is in the details.  Here are a few of the ones we’ve discovered:

Fowl Play: The symbol of the bird is used throughout this opera.  For example, one of the central characters, Papageno the bird catcher, sings playful tunes intended to mimic the sound of chirping birds. Look closely at pieces from Wiinblad’s dinnerware collection, and you’ll see that the theme of the bird is shown in beautiful relief throughout.

Up to No Good: With elaborate costumes and heavenly melodies, Mozart created many of his characters to be deceptively beautiful. The Queen, who initially appears to be harmless, later reveals her malicious intent to destroy Sarastro. In Wiinblad’s depictions of these characters, they are intentionally shown in an aura of ambiguous elegance.

Hidden Secrets: There are beautiful secrets and surprises hidden throughout the opera.  For his part, Wiinblad surprises his audience by using his own handwriting to paint the names of the arias and scenes depicted on each piece.  But they’re not obvious … he’s hidden them in the crevices and underneath each piece.

It is a collection that looks as good on the table as it does on the shelf.  Available in gold or plain white, each piece is delightful.

To view all pieces from this extraordinary collection, click here.

Beauty, elegance and imagination are embodied in L’Objet‘s unique style, and their stunning and sensuous Turtle Candle is no exception. But what makes this candle so different?  We asked Eve to tell us after she received hers:

 

What were your first impressions when you received the package?

The presentation was beautiful. It was wrapped in a black box with gold trim, in L’Objet‘s signature packaging.

What did you think of the Limoges porcelain exterior?

I was so impressed by the canister. It has the real shape, color, and texture of a turtle shell! Moving your hand across the top, it feels like it really could be one. The intricately painted details and 14k gold edges really make it unlike any other candle.

How did it smell?

The Pink Champagne scent truly is intoxicating. The candle is very richly saturated, but the fragrance is light and sweet. While slightly floral, the smell was very fresh and crisp, like rain.

Did you light the candle right away?

Of course! I like candles because they make my home feel warm and relaxed, so I lit this one as soon as I got home from work. The scent is very clean and soothing, and within only a minute of lighting the candle, it filled the whole room with fragrance. It was the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day.

Would you recommend this candle to others?

Absolutely; I say buy two! It is so beautiful and unique that it makes a perfect gift, and it already comes so nicely packaged. But the minute you see or smell it, you will be glad you got one for yourself, too. The best part is, while it will burn up to 50 hours, the gorgeous box will last years after the candle is gone.

For more from L’Objet, click here.

Gracious Style is the lifestyle destination for the sophisticated and well-traveled individual. Whether you’re looking to throw a fabulous dinner party, redecorate your master bathroom, or find a special gift for someone, we bring you all the little things you need to live life well.

We understand how you want to live today.  Like you, we’re busy and constantly flying from one country to the next.  But no matter where we are, we care about how things are made, and we want them to last us for years.  We want things that are exquisite, but we need them to work with everything else we already own.  And of course, we only want to surround ourselves with objects that we’ll reach for again and again.

So this is what we’ve done.  We’ve culled through thousands and thousands of items and brought you only the very best ones.  Some you’ll recognize (like Christofle flatware and Yves Delorme bedding) while others will be new (like Mario Luca Giusti drinkware).  But no matter when or where they were made, you’ll see that they will all work together to create a look that’s just perfect for you.

 

Founded in 1999, Gracious Style has been featured in numerous publications and television segments including The Wall Street Journal, Southern Accents, Departures, and Elle Decor. We have worked with sophisticated clients and some of the world’s best-known interior designers and architects to furnish private homes, yachts, jets, hotels, restaurants, and embassies.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.  Welcome to Gracious Style.

For more about our history and passion, check out our blog!

 

At Gracious Style, we are introduced to some of the most luxurious materials on a daily basis. It’s our job to find the best of the best, whether it’s Giza 45 Egyptian Cotton sheets, or hand-embroidered Italian table linens. Given the quality of the products we love, we know that proper care and cleaning are essential for long-lasting, sumptuous fibers.  We’ve personally tested Le Blanc’s specialty cleansers in our own homes, and here’s what we have to say.

What You Should Know:

• Le Blanc products are environmentally safe. They are 100% biodegradable, contain no bleach, have a neutral pH balance, and are not tested on animals. This makes them safe for cleaning delicate materials like lace, silk, linen, and down.
• The detergents are triple concentrated. 1/4 cup is all that is needed for a full load of laundry. “I love that you only use 2 ounces of liquid per load; my bottle lasted me several months!” – Carolina
• Le Blanc products are energy-efficient. All of the cleansers work with cold water, and can be used in a variety of washing machines.
• Le Blanc formulas have been tested to remove stains caused by lipstick, jam, fruit juice, coffee, tea, chocolate, wine, grease, blood, cola, ink and even certain oils.

Le Blanc Offerings:

Linen Press – designed to leave a silky hand and polished finish on table and bed linens. Press fine fabrics and create a protective layer to guard against new stains. This non-aerosol formula ensures a wrinkle-free sheen, and features an easy spray nozzle.

Linen Wash – Le Blanc’s premium cold-water cleanser is proven to be the safest in the home textile industry. The detergent removes tough stains from fabrics without the use of harmful chemicals. It is mild enough to care for linen, cotton, sateen, and percale, making it ideal for use on bedding and table cloths. “The Linen Wash really works well for pretreating stains. After our Thanksgiving dinner, I quickly poured a few drops on our napkins and tablecloths, and the stains were gone when I did the laundry the next day.” – Carolina

Silk & Lingerie Wash – Designed for all washable and colorfast delicate fabrics. The specialized formula protects elasticity, preserves shape, and gently launders swim and active wear, hosiery and intimate apparel, wool and cashmere sweaters, and silk bedding and table linens. “No need to buy scented sachets to stick in my underwear and sock drawers anymore. The articles smell so fresh after, they scent the whole drawer” – Nicole.

Towel Wash – formulated to clean luxury bath towels, mats, rugs, and cotton terry robes while protecting fibers from drying out. Even after repeated wash cycles, bath linens are guaranteed to remain soft, strong, and absorbent. “Washing my towels in the Summer Verbena Towel Wash made a remarkable difference. They were soft to the touch and smelled amazing, which I expected would happen, but I was nervous they wouldn’t look as clean. I was proven wrong; no makeup stains, nothing! Worked like a charm for my white towels” – Nicole.

Laundry Wash – For use on all types of apparel made from natural and synthetic fibers. Fabrics are disinfected while colors and shapes are preserved. Whites and darks alike will smell fresh and look renewed. “Doing laundry is now more fun, and our linens smell really good” – Carolina.

Downwash – Specifically designed for laundering down-filled, down alternative, and hypoallergenic materials without altering its capacity for natural insulation. This wash protects down’s loft by preventing its naturally resilient oils from becoming brittle. “So nice that I can wash my down comforter at home now.” – Carolina.

Fragrance Infusion – This alternative to traditional fabric softener can be added to the rinse cycle to reduce static cling and add extra fragrance. As this product contains no optical brighteners, and will not stain or clog, it is safe for use in all washing machines. “I’ve been hearing more and more about the disadvantages of using fabric softeners. This is an excellent, safer alternative” – Nicole.

Dryer Sachets – These should be used in place of polyester dryer sheets to prevent pilling of luxury linens. Filled with unique fragrances, the sachets scent articles in the dryer or in a drawer. Each one can be reused for a minimum of sixteen cycles. “I use these in my closets to scent up the whole space” – Carolina.

Linen Waters – Perfect for misting household linens and fabrics like bed sheets, drapery, towels, and more. The formula will not stain and is guaranteed to leave a lasting aroma.

Spotlight on Scents: 

Original: “A very sweet, fruity and floral scent. The apple, hyacinth, and sandalwood are the most prevalent notes” – Eve. “Sweet like candy but charmingly light. The fusion of jasmine, kiwi, grapefruit, and musk are refreshing” – Nicole.

Fields of Green: “Floral, but fresher than the original scent, this one has a slighter brighter fragrance to it, with more of a citrusy garden blend” – Eve. “Reminds me of fresh cut grass, and spring” – Nicole.

Children’s Wash (Pink and Purple): “Light and happy, like a cloud on a spring day” – Si. “This is a milder, lighter version of the Original scent” – Carolina.

Lavender: “Like a field in Provence” – Carolina. “Very classic, herbal scent with subtle notes of mint” – Eve. “Lavender is of course a calming aroma. This fragrance will sooth the senses and coat your linens in a blanket of tranquil freshness. Very ladylike” – Nicole.

Silk Petals Silk & Lingerie: “A signature floral scent, this mixes the sweet smells of rose with gardenia” – Eve. “Floral, feminine, and delicate, the blend of lilac, rose, and gardenia is delightfully sophisticated” – Nicole. “Powdery and feminine” – Carolina.

Blue Violet: “Light, clear, and fresh” – Si. “Clean, crisp, and soapy (in the best way!), with light floral notes” – Nicole.

Summer Verbena: “Primarily citrus, with a hint of floral” – Eve. “After washing my bedding in this scent, my entire bedroom smelled of a lovely citrus, but the scent was never overwhelming” – Nicole.

Portfolio: “My personal favorite! This is a more masculine scent, but the women in our office loved it equally as much. This is a woodsy, musky scent with notes of amber and vanilla” – Eve. “Serious and sophisticated” – Si. “Designed for the modern day male, this scent is universally appealing and alluring. The blend of woods and orange blossom, with hints of vanilla, make it an ideal unisex fragrance” – Nicole.

For more Le Blanc, click here!

With summer in full swing, Yves Delorme is helping us celebrate Bastille Day with their biggest sale of the year.

Offering beauty, sophistication and incredible comfort, Yves Delorme has all the finest indulgences for bed and bath. Whether you need something for that perfect summer birthday gift, or want to treat yourself to a little luxury, now is the time to act!  From July 11 – 19, enjoy 20% off all Yves Delorme items.  But hurry, this offer is as fleeting as a soft summer breeze, so be sure to place your order soon!

 

For more amazing summer styles from Yves Delorme, click here!

Keeping with their signature style of classic elegance, Peacock Alley has added many new collections for Spring/Summer 2014.

Combining cotton and linen for the perfect summertime weight, the Mary Ella Bedding Collection is the perfect balance of sweet femininity and practicality.

 

Embracing modern simplicity, the new Billy Collection has a subtle jacquard ticking stripe in five inviting hues.

 

Adding new spice to an already flawless design, the Majorca Cable Knit Cotton Blanket gets a new punch of color in Blue, Aqua, Green and Coral.

 

Now available in the all new Grand Euro pillow size, collections such as the Mandalay Bedding offer the ultimate indulgence for your bedroom: the height of a Euro Sham with the width of a King Sham, 26 x 36 inches.

 

With just the right touch of pastel, the new Charleston Collection has subtle Southern charm in a delicate floral pattern.

 

On soft, sateen cotton, Emma exhibits a hand-drawn geometric print in colors that will mix and match perfectly with the more subdued styles.

 

For more beautiful bed and bath linens by Peacock Alley, click here.

Summer is on the horizon, and we’re captivated by the citrus palettes making a splash on the design scene! From tangerine to grapefruit, pops of punchy colors are perfect for adding a tangy twist to traditional interiors. Combine two or more extroverted hues, like lemon with lime, for a juicy, ‘Happy Chic’ look, a la Jonathan Adler or Trina Turk.

Here are some of our favorite picks this season:

For al fresco dining, nothing beats the chic but practical acrylic drinkware from Mario Luca Giusti.  We love how artistic the Palla Fluo pitchers look en masse …

… and how easily they can brighten anything up – even an ancient Italian cobblestone courtyard!

Sprinkle your interiors with these citrus accents for a bright, modern, and peppy aesthetic.

We’re in a happy mood just looking at this trend!

While it is clear that Herend‘s Queen Victoria Dinnerware pays homage to this famous monarch, it was actually her husband Albert who first introduced her to this once-small Hungarian company.

In Herend‘s Fall 2012 Insider, they recount this historical time…

Albert was born as a prince in Germany. But because his family was neither wealthy nor powerful, he was looked down upon as an interloper in British society. Yet the harsh public assessment didn’t curtail his devotion to helping his wife serve as monarch and advising her on political and diplomatic affairs. Prince Albert became viewed as a progressive voice at a crucial time, and he earned respect for his intellect and interest in helping society improve.

Thanks to his penchant for technology and his astute sensibilities on moving Britain forward, he was the pivotal force behind a venue that happened to propel a little-known Hungarian product line named Herend to the fore.  That venue was the first World’s Fair.

As history goes, it was at this Great Exhibition that Prince Albert’s wife discovered a porcelain pattern she adored and wanted for her own. Queen Victoria’s large purchase of the set led Herend to name the pattern after her. Thus began Herend’s foray into the high ranks of the aristocracy, setting the stage for more of the same worldwide.

Later, at the Paris Exposition of 1867 – recognized as the third World’s Fair – Herend’s Indian Flower Basket pattern was selected for the table settings at an exclusive reception in the Elysee Palace to honor Emperor Franz Joseph. An invited guest, Hungarian Count Albert Apponyi was struck by the pattern and imagined it with the dominant peony motif enlarged and basket removed to create a simpler yet equally elegant design.

His order of a custom set per his vision resulted in a design that Herend named Apponyi in the Count’s honor. Known in the U.S. as Chinese Bouquet, the pattern remains one of Herend’s most successful collections year after year. Many iterations of the pattern have been successfully introduced since then, the most recent being Chinese Bouquet Garland (introduced in 2013).

While Prince Albert’s contributions to Britain and the world are numerous and well documented, his provision of a key forum for Herend to shine isn’t mentioned among them. As far as Herend is concerned, though, it is high time for a hats off to “the great man behind the great woman”.

For more beautiful dinnerware patterns, visit our Herend Dinnerware Shop.

Mariposa began 1984, when founder Livia Cowan found herself driving through Mexico with her sister in this camper.

There, they delighted in visiting different artists and learning about their craft.  In particular, they loved how local artisans recycled materials to create beautiful new products.

At the end of the trip, Livia returned to her home in Massachusetts with her camper full of recycled glassware and set up shop in her parents’ garage.

In the thirty years since then, Mariposa (Spanish for “butterfly”) has become a world of stunning pieces for gifting and entertaining.  And, just as they were in the early days, the majority of their products are still handcrafted from 100% recycled aluminum and glass soft drink bottles.

It’s a collection that’s right for today and tomorrow.

Here are a few of our favorites: String of Pearls (designed by sculptor Michael Updike, who incidentally is author John Updike’s son) …

… their engraved trays (perfect for weddings and anniversaries) …

… Bellini drinkware (for when you need something nice, but not too precious) …

… anything nautical …

… and their adorable Bunny Porringer set!

 

To view our full Mariposa collection, click here.

“I decorate rooms from the bottom up…I always begin with the floors.”

Iconic interior designer Bunny Williams, known for her classic yet charismatic style, has teamed up with sister companies Dash & Albert and Pine Cone Hill to create a collection of indoor/outdoor rugs that is as fashionable as it is functional.  They are designed to stand the test of time, and the occasional spill of red wine!

Williams’s collection is polished and thoughtful, but with a bohemian quality that reflects the designer’s laid-back personality. She says, “What I design are backdrops for living. I want to create rooms to be used, not just showplaces to be admired.” Williams conceived 36 elegant, performance-based designs that would fit in with customers’ busy lifestyles. Marrying comfort and style, the rugs feature sophisticated patterns in soothing color palettes, all on durable, washable materials. The natural jute rugs are made from eco-friendly vegetable dyes while the indoor/outdoor rugs are constructed of a recycled-materials weave.

Williams continues, “My personal style is all about making my houses comfortable and inviting for my family and friends, and of course, my dogs.” Each piece in the collection is named after Williams’ favorite pets, past or present.

For her collaboration with Pine Cone Hill, Williams designed throws and pillows that work beautifully with the rugs, making it easy to get a coordinated look with minimal effort.

For more information on Williams’ collection with Pine Cone Hill, please click here. Click here for additional information on Bunny Williams for Dash & Albert.

Summer.  La dolce vita.  A party by the pool.  Sailing on the water.  Or just a nice lawn barbecue.  Naturally, friends and family will come in droves.  So how do you entertain them in style, without setting up for the high holidays?  Here are our little secrets (shhh….)

– Acrylic stemware from Mario Luca Giusti: From his studio in Florence, Mario has re-created classic Italian stemware in acrylic and polycarbonate. The result?  As cool as a Vespa on the cobblestoned streets of Florence. No wonder it’s become a darling of the European yachting crowd — look for it on Roberto Cavalli’s yacht or in the hands Albert II of Monaco, Valentino, the Missonis, the Ferragamos, and Steven Spielberg.

– Melamine dinnerware from Q Squared NYC Dinnerware: They’re chic, they’re classic, and they’re dishwasher safe! These pieces, created by Nancy (former Glamour editor) and Alaina (color aficionado with an art history background), recreate the ornate designs of antique porcelain on heavyweight melamine, and they’re made to be mixed and matched.

 

– Easy-care tablecloths fromGarnier Thiebaut and Le Jacquard Francais: Many of our classic French table linens, favorites of everyone from the George V in Paris to the French Laundry, now come coated with an invisible treatment to protect your linens from liquids and stains, while keeping them soft and supple.

Now there’s no reason not to entertain this summer.  Let us know how it went — tweet a picture of your party to @GraciousStyle!  Need more ideas?  Click here to see our Outdoor Entertaining section.

Spring cleaning season is here, which means it’s time to freshen up your linens. If your towels are tired, your tub mats worn, and your bathroom is generally looking drab, give your home the update it deserves with Kassatex’s new collections of luxurious bath essentials. Say goodbye to fuzz and hello to fluff with linens and accessories designed to help you clean up in style.

Experience unparalleled texture and comfort with Kassatex’s new bath towel collections, many of which are inspired by destinations in Europe. The Marseilles Collection features a wave effect sculpted in piece dyed jacquard, while the Mallorca Collection is enhanced with an on-trend ombre print and unique eyelash fringe for a more contemporary look.

Named after Portugal’s captivating capital, Lisboa Bath Towels take forms inspired by classic baroque style. Featuring a decorative jacquard bottom border in a delicate palette, this collection is the perfect compliment for any bath.

Designers of well-appointed bathrooms rely on chic bath accessories to artfully store toiletries and eliminate clutter.  A porcelain dispenser from Kassatex’s new Shagreen Collection is a lot more glamorous perched on the counter than a plain, plastic soap bottle purchased from the drugstore.

To view more from Kassatex, including new introductions to the Bambini children’s line, please click here.

 

 

For nearly two hundred years, Garnier-Thiebaut has been creating exquisite linens for the home. But it is Green Sweet, their recent innovation in fabric technology, that is most exciting to the busy, modern family.

What is Green Sweet?

Green Sweet is a revolutionary treatment which makes linens stain resistant.

Does Green Sweet affect the way my linens feel?

No.  Green Sweet does not affect the look and feel of linens, so textiles stay equally soft and breathable.

What happens when liquids spill on my Green Sweet linens?

Liquids will puddle on the surface, so you can simply wipe them off.

How is Green Sweet applied to fabrics?

Each fiber is coated in the stain-resistant treatment before it is woven into fabric to ensure the entire cloth is fully saturated.

Can I wash my Green Sweet linens?

Absolutely!  They can be washed the same way as regular linens, but you won’t need to launder them as often since they will remain clean for longer.

Can I iron my Green Sweet linens?

Yes.  The heat of the iron reactivates the Green Sweet treatment, so it is good for Green Sweet linens to be ironed.

Can you show me what happens when there are spills? 

Take a look at how these linens react to jam, fruit juice, water, and even red wine!

Want to see more? Click on the video below for a demonstration:

 

Why is it called Green Sweet?

Green refers to the non-stick and self-cleaning process of certain plants. Sweet stands for Simple to clean, Waterproof, Economic maintenance, Environmentally friendly, and Textile touch.

Now, it’s time to try one for yourself! Here are a few of our favorites:

 

Have you tried Garnier-Thiebaut‘s incredible Green Sweet linens yet?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both fearsome and fascinating, wolves have a long and complicated history with humans. While they have been the subject of debate for thousands of years, wolves have managed to avoid total extinction, even when their population number dropped to 300 in the 1960’s. In honor of the wolf’s perseverance and prowess, Herend created the Lone Wolf as part of their limited-edition Reserve Collection.

Herend’s Wolf is the definitive lone wolf, being the first and only Herend figurine to wear a coat of alternating gray and platinum fishnet. This unique color mix captures the essence of a Gray Wolf, the most prevalent variety in the U.S. The eerily realistic-looking eyes add the finishing touch to enhance the drama of this Herend treasure.

Wolves are the descendants of prehistoric Dire Wolves, powerful creatures which roamed North America approximately two million years ago. Now extinct, these predators hunted prey as large as wooly mammoths. Even with such capabilities, as wolves evolved, humans never became a desired target. Contrarily, the hunter became the hunted. The Aztecs, for example, killed wolves for their livers, which were believed to possess healing powers. In Ireland, wolves were exterminated until the last animal was killed in the late 1700’s. In the U.S., a war was waged against the wolf in the 1900’s, as wolves were perceived as pests who threatened the American people’s safety and prosperity. 

Thankfully, measures were taken in the U.S. to protect the wolf’s dwindling populations, which plummeted to the brink of extinction. In 1974, the Endangered Species Act was enacted, and the wolf was among the first animals to be put on the protected list. Today, around 5,000 wolves inhabit North America, mostly in Yellowstone National Park and the Rocky Mountains. Conservationists are hopeful that wolf populations will remain stable.

Wolves are intelligent and gregarious animals. They form close relationships and strong social bonds with members of their packs. Even alphas are known to express deep affection for their families, going to great lengths to protect their pups. Herend’s Wolf is a symbol of strength and loyalty, making it the perfect gift for a member of your own pack.

To see more Herend figurines and collectibles, please click here.

If there’s one thing Rachel Zoe knows, it’s style. The designer, author, and distinguished fashion icon is recognized for her glamorous aesthetic and high-profile clientele. When she’s not busy running the Zoe empire, the self-described perfectionist enjoys hosting dinner parties at her chic California abode. In an interview with Domaine Home, Zoe shares which entertaining essentials make an at-home meal feel like an A-list affair.

At the top of her list? The Vertigo collection from luxury silverware company Christofle. Like Chanel and Christian Dior, Christofle is a symbol of elegance and prestige.  And Vertigo, designed by renowned French interior and product designer Andree Putman, is Rachel’s favorite.  Its unique element – a slightly twisted ring –  brings life and even a sense of humor to the otherwise immaculate silver objets. For her picture-perfect party, she relies on exquisite pieces like the Christofle Vertigo Three-Part Serving Tray for flawless food presentation.

Made of glass with silver-plated handles, the Vertigo rectangular tray is sectioned into three parts, so guests can sample a variety of hors d’oeuvres. Just as jewelry completes an outfit, Zoe knows that beautiful dinnerware puts the finishing touches on a well-dressed dining table. She advises, “Take the time to fill glass pitchers with sparkling and flat water, put condiments in charming crystal jars, and place food that comes to the table on chic serving trays.” Follow Zoe’s lead, and your friends will be itching for invites to your next soiree.

To see the complete collection of Christofle at Gracious Style, please click here.

Renowned wedding planner and designer David Tutera knows how to make anyone’s special day unforgettable. So when he asked to feature our L’Objet Antique Bow Tie and Lorel Napkin Rings in an upcoming wedding, we were thrilled to participate! With a regal purple, cobalt, and gold color palette, these beautiful table accents have never looked more lovely.  All images courtesy of Yodsukars Photography.

L’Objet‘s Antique Bowtie Gold Napkin Rings add drama to these velvety plum napkins.

These gold Lorel Napkin Rings emphasize the eternal bond of this beautiful union.

These gorgeous napkin rings contributed to the perfect tabletop for this elegant ceremony.

A special thanks to everyone at David Tutera for including us in your beautiful photoshoot!

For more dazzling napkin rings, visit our full collection here.

This Mother’s Day, give Mom the gift of wrapping up in comfort in any of Yves Delorme’s sumptuous bath robes and towels. Gracious Style is celebrating the occasion with a special Mother’s Day sale, coming soon! From April 26 – May 11, enjoy a 20% discount on all Yves Delorme towels and robes.

Show Mom how much you care with the Je T’Aime collection, French for “I love you.” For an extra special treat, consider the Beaucoup (French for “a lot”) collection.  Together, these are the perfect way to say , ‘I love you a lot.’

No matter which collection you choose, a gift from Yves Delorme is a thoughtful gesture that is sure to warm Mom’s heart.

To see the complete collection of Yves Delorme at Gracious Style, please click here.

Color can be controversial when it comes to decorating your home. Some people instinctively gravitate towards it, while others shy away, preferring more muted, monochromatic environments. Not Nanette Lepore. The contemporary fashion designer, known for her peppy, pattern-splashed clothing, is making a major statement with her new home collection, Nanette Lepore Villa. Inspired by her global travels, and the vibrant color palette of her ready-to-wear line, Lepore injects the same liveliness and flare into Villa, using bold hues and striking prints fearlessly.

Exotic patterns and rich color combinations abound in Villa’s debut collection. Villa is intricate, yes, but never overwhelming. Jewel tones like cobalt blue, teal, fuchsia, and emerald add sophistication to graphic patterns like peacock feathers, animal prints, and Ikat.

In 2005, the whimsical fashionista commissioned Jonathan Adler to outfit her New York home.  As he recalls, “Nanette insisted we choose furniture that was light and movable because they are a family that dances.” The dance-party hostess collaborated with Adler to transform her townhouse into a space that felt colorful, collected, and eclectic. When it came time to design her own home collection, Lepore applied her same mix-and-match, cheerfully chaotic approach.  She says, “I set out to create something that was daring, energetic, and exciting to come home to.”

Which is your favorite piece from Villa? See the entire collection, and shop the look here.

Growing up in China, I spent much of my childhood in the Han dynasty.  Many of my childhood heroes came from this period, and I would travel 2,000 years back in time to go on adventures with them while sitting in class or doing homework.

As I grew older, I realized I wasn’t the only one.  The Han dynasty is probably the most important period in the history of China.  Its institutions were emulated by all the dynasties that followed it, and it defined what it means to be Chinese.  Even today, the word “Han” means a person in Chinese, most of the Chinese people are called the “Han people,” and the Chinese language the “Han language.”

Artistically, the Han dynasty has a more streamlined, almost modern, look compared to the floral styles of the later Ming and Qing dynasties.   This is the style which inspired Elad and L’Objet’s new Han Dynasty collection.  For example, the dinnerware’s border motif, available in gold or white, recalls the geometric pattern from those ancient times:

The tea canisters, black canister bowl, and black canister vase are based on the shapes of urns and other household objects:

Finally, these salt and pepper shakers vaguely remind me of both ancient Chinese drinking cups and geometric latticework patterns:

So even if I can’t go back in time to feast with my heroes, I can share a little of their artistic tradition.

Take a look at L’Objet’s other fanciful creations, richly inspired by art and history from around the world.  Which time or place is your favorite?

With spring in full bloom and summer drawing nearer, it’s the perfect time to refresh your interiors with a dose of sunny, California style. For an effortless West Coast vibe, trust Trina Turk, who brings her signature fashion sense to a new line of bedding. Casual but chic, Turk’s eponymous home collection reflects the fashion designer’s love of vintage apparel, modern patterns, and vivid color palettes.

Citrus hues and fashion-derived graphics bring an element of carefree glamour to Turk’s coverlets and shams.

 

Dubbed the empress of Palm Springs-chic, Turk is known for her mid-century modern aesthetic. Bold, geometric prints and vibrant hues are hallmarks of her brand. Turk attributes her retro-mod sensibility to her California upbringing. She cites the Golden State’s architecture, landscapes, and multicultural mix as sources of inspiration. Turk’s designs are optimistic, progressive, and accessible; qualities that perfectly capture her California lifestyle.

Large scale prints and dynamic colors speak to Turk’s love affair with mid-century modern architecture. Her designs are also informed by her appreciation for 1960’s – 1970’s vintage apparel and jewelry, and modernist and graphic art. Turk’s bedding can be styled to match any personality. Accessorize with mixed-print throw pillows for an adventurous look, or complement with neutrals for a more modest mood.

To see more of  Turk’s fashion bedding, click here.

And as our gift to you,  enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every Trina Turk item until April 15th.

What makes Yves Delorme‘s Etoile Bath Towels so luxurious? Here at Gracious Style, we just had to find out for ourselves! From the vividly saturated hues to the thick but lightweight texture, these towels are an experience worth sharing.

When our Etoile Bath Towels arrived, we had the following reactions:

“What beautiful colors!” – Eve

“The different weave on the border really stands out.” – Si

“The color is sophisticated and the dobby border gives it a tailored look.  And if you look closely, you’ll see that the pattern on the border looks like small butterflies.” – Carolina

Next, we took them home for a test drive in their natural element: the bathroom.

This is where the feeling of the towels came into play. How would these be different?

“Right away, the softness of the material was evident, due to the combination of modal and cotton fibers. I have never used a towel with this fabric before, but now, this is the only kind of towel I use” – Eve

“It felt elegant …I really care about how linens feel, so I was thrilled to see that the Etoile was soft and not too heavy”. – Carolina

“The texture is soft and plush, like a teddy bear”. – Si

We had discovered the visual charm and irresistible feel, but it was the quality that determined our true satisfaction.

Due to the combination of materials, the unique modal-cotton blend makes Etoile lightweight, but still extremely absorbent.

“The fabric is softer and more absorbent without adding extra weight.  Best of both worlds” – Carolina

We came to the unanimous agreement that this towel made an everyday activity extraordinary. The only test which remained: would this towel maintain all of these essential qualities after washing? We washed, we dried, we repeated. The answer was Yes!

“I have now washed it three times with LeBlanc Linen Wash, and it is just as absorbent as it was when I first used it.  The color has also stayed the same” – Carolina

“The towel came out as fluffy and soft as it was when I first opened it, and had a crisp, fresh scent from the detergent”. – Eve

A true testimony to Yves Delorme Etoile Bath Towels, this collection not only has our stamp of approval, but our enthusiastic recommendation.

For more incredible items from Yves Delorme, click here!

 

At Gracious Style, we love to bring you the newest, most unique handcrafted collections, and we’re excited to introduce these truly divine textiles by John Robshaw.

Painter and Pratt graduate John Robshaw began his art career studying block printing in China, when a quest for the perfect indigo dye took him to India. He fell in love with their strong culture of textile design, and began working with local artisans and their traditional printmaking techniques on designs that incorporate a fresh, modern feel while still retaining the essence of India’s master handcrafting.

 

John Robshaw’s newest offerings are inspired by his stay in Pondicherry, a South Indian tropical city full of magic and beauty on the Bay of Bengal. Formerly a French colony, the city is also home to Auroville, a famous spiritual center founded by the Hindu teacher Sri Aurobindo.

 

The bright colors of Pondicherry’s French colonial architecture, the deep azure blue of the ocean, the rich hues of organic indigo dyes, and the vibrant spiritual life of the people of India all combine to create these stunningly beautiful collections of fine textiles.

 

John Robshaw’s Nikolo Collection echoes the wonderful decorative tradition of kolams – intricate, abstract designs laid out in colorful rice powder by the women of Pondicherry, inviting the goddess of prosperity into their homes. 

 

Only the finest traditional Indian craftsmanship is used to create these stunning pieces. It takes a day and a half for a skilled artisan in Jaipur to paint each of these pillows.

 

Bring the romance and serenity of South India into your bath with this hand-screened shower curtain and exotic hand-cut bathmat.

 

What’s your favorite John Robshaw design? Browse our entire collection here, and let us know!  

 

We love reading Marisa Marcantonio’s sophisticated design blog Stylebeat, and were thrilled to see Christofle’s Kawali Green Crystal Goblet featured in today’s post! These richly hued glasses embody luxury with their saturated color and geometric design, and add a touch of bright elegance to any cocktail hour, dining table or nightcap.

For more stylish ideas from Marisa’s blog, click here.

And to see more stunning glassware, visit our Christofle Crystal Shop.

 

 

 

 

 

Want to make this Valentine’s Day one to remember? Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, or a luncheon with your closest friends, hosting for Valentine’s Day is the perfect way to celebrate!

Bold linens scream celebration. We love Yves Delorme‘s festive Face a Face Collection.

Warm your foyer or table with Simon Pearce‘s Highgate Heart Tealights.

Spark some romance with toasting flutes like Waterford‘s Love and Romance Red Flute Pair.

Accent your mantle with whimsical figurines. We love how romantic Herend‘s Kissing Swans are.

Make a statement with Vietri‘s glamorous Laurel Glass Red Serveware.

Details are everything! We love that extra punch of color with Alain Saint Joanis‘ Anglais Claret Flatware.

For more great Valentine’s Day ideas, click here.

 

Winding down the holiday season, it is time to think about your own needs. January is the perfect time to start those little changes that make a big difference.  Here are some New Year’s resolutions that will be the perfect treat for yourself:

Explore: Find new adventures in Graphic Image‘s 1,000 Places to See Before You Die…

…And bring luxury to any destination with sofiacashmere‘s Emilia Red Cashmere Travel Set.

Keep calm: Light Michael Aram‘s Ocean Coral Candle when you’re stressed. The soothing fragrance will bring peace and tranquility for the New Year.

Keep things clean: Doing laundry becomes a pleasure with the floral aroma of LeBlanc‘s Blue Violet Linen Care.

Stay organized: Selamat‘s Classic Large Desk Caddy will keep all your accessories neat and easily available.

Stay motivated: Be inspired each day with Natural Curiosities’ Quotes Collection.

Spend more time with friends and family: If you have a busy schedule, a cup of tea is the perfect way to catch up.

Seth: Hi I’m Seth.

Jenna: And I’m Jenna.

Seth: We’re not real people but avatars–

Jenna: Quit being such a geek, Seth!

Seth: OK, sorry, fictitious characters.  We were invented by the editors of Gracious Style to help you see how design are a part of all of our lives.  So in our fictitious lives, Jenna and I are both in our late twenties.  I’m a Project Manager at a non-profit.

Jenna: And I’m a visual designer for a gaming company.  We’ve been going out for two years now, and we recently moved into a new place in Brooklyn.

Seth: Take a look at our Pinterest board to see what our corner of the world looks like.

Jenna: We’re still unpacking, but this is how we’d love our place to look like:

Seth: This place is so cool, with all the metal and brick and the old school lights.  I could spend hours hanging out with my buddies here.

Jenna: This one’s my favorite.  I love all the old details — the molding, the fireplaces and mirrors, and the floor.  It’s looks so antique-y but cool at the same time.

Jenna: I love everything in this room!

Seth: I like the wood and brick look here.

Jenna: Just remember our place looks nothing like that yet.

Seth: It’s not so bad.  Jenna’s made it pretty nice already.

Jenna: Thanks.  But we’ve still got a long way to go.

Seth:  Not too long now — my parents just announced they’re coming down from Wisconsin for the holidays, so we better get it ready by Christmas.

Jenna: Oh boy.

Seth: Huh? What’s wrong?

Jenna: Well, this’ll be the first time I meet them, and we’ve still got stuff in boxes.  I’m scared!

Seth: You’re scared?  Ha ha!  Last time they were out in Brooklyn was visiting Luger’s for steaks 15 years ago, so as long as they don’t get mugged, they’ll be happy.

Jenna: What Seth meant to say was: we want to make this place really nice for them when they come out.

Seth: Yeah, so could you give us some ideas on how we could set up the guest room for them?

Jenna: Pictures would be great.  I’m a visual person.

Seth: And I’m not good at imagining stuff, so yeah, pictures would help me too.

Jenna: We’ll retweet all your suggestions and add our favorites to our Pinterest board with a big “Thank you!”

Can you help Seth and Jenna get their guest room ready for Seth’s parents?  Please comment below, tweet @GraciousStyle, or post on the Gracious Style Facebook page with your suggestions.

Company’s coming?  Why don’t you update your guest room with these essentials … any of them will make your guests feel pampered.

To find more bedding, candles, clocks, hangers, rugs, bath accessories, and lamps, visit GraciousStyle.com.

There’s never been a better time to stop up on classic items on sale! We’ve taken reductions on many of our favorite collections, so now’s the time to treat yourself. Quantities are extremely limited, so hurry!

View our complete sale section at GraciousStyle.com

Inspired by the lustrous mineral, Malachite trends have been striking both the runway and the home. The rich green hue and organic shape add the perfect decorative accent to any room or tabletop.

Flooding the catwalk with color, Malachite is one of the season’s most dynamic looks.

Finished with 24 karat gold details, L’Objet‘s Malachite Desk Accessories make stunning gifts with a bold statement.

The geometric accents of Tony Duquette’s Malachite Chargers add regal charm to your table.

For more ideas, follow our Malachite board on Pinterest.

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Surrounded by the constant motion of today’s busy world, it is easy to overlook the smaller details. But occasionally a vision can ground us, reminding us how fantastic natural beauty can be: a colorful sunset, the feathers on a bird, or the texture of a mineral.

“Cabinet of Curiosities,” L’Objet’s fall collection, is a feast for the eyes spanning centuries of design.  Inspired by natural history, geology and architectural relics, this is our favorite of founder Elad’s collections.  Flooded with saturated colors and fluid shapes, these stunning pieces will take you on an unforgettable journey.

Carrousel Gold is a miracle of movement and light, captured in an amalgam of 24-karat gold-plated brass and pure whimsy.

Snake and Crocodile are flights of fancy for lovers of faraway places, exotic textures, curious curvatures, and distinctive craftsmanship.

Coral is decadent, sophisticated, and entirely unexpected.

Malachite is bold and sumptuous, inspired by cultures ancient and new, united in a riot of elegance.

To view our all of our collections by L’Objet, click here.

 

 

Emphasizing floral shapes and patterns, flower magazine loves to introduce new ways to bring flowers to life.  Their Fall 2013 issue, which features interior designers Thomas Jayne and Prince of Chintz Mario Buatta, is full of beautiful and sophisticated interiors.

 

For a fall table, they’ve picked Moser’s Lady Hamilton Gilded Hock Set, which adds a beautiful silhouette and a burst of color to your tabletop.

 

Pair these hocks with the pieces below, and you’ll instantly transform your dining room.

 

 

Thanks a bunch, flower!  We always look forward to getting every new issue that arrives in our mailbox.  To read more about flower magazine, click here.

Since its founding in 1830, Christofle has always been one of the most prestigious names in French silver.  Known for the quality of their silver flatware, picture frames, and hollowware, Christofle pieces are coveted by collectors worldwide, including Emperor Bonaparte, the royal households of the Ottoman Empire, and the Tsar of Russia.  Today, Christofle is synonymous with silver throughout France, and its collections are regularly seen at Christie’s and Sotheby’s auctions (as well as our own table!).

Whether sterling, silverplated, or stainless, each item is individually hand made and finished.

Liquid metal is poured into molds at up to 40,000 degrees Fahrenheit to cast each piece. After the metal is cooled, artisans must shape the items with various mallets and hammers, ensuring that the thickness of the item is consistent throughout.

 

Items are then soldered, or smoothed, to guarantee the flawless, seamless finish and mirror-like polish, characteristic of Christofle. Every piece of Christofle silver is crafted by one hundred hands, using time, care and great expertise to complete the long, detailed process.

Jardin d’Eden is the latest Christofle flatware collection, designed by Marcel Wanders. The pattern is poetry made real, with decoration that spans the entirety of the flatware in a single engraving. The interlaced leaves, flowers and curls are inspired by a lush garden, a fine tracery dancing over each piece.

Malmaison, one of Christofle’s most historic patterns, is in the Empire style. The frieze of delicate palm and lotus leaves is typical of this style, and was inspired by the summer home of Napoleon’s wife, where she dined using pieces from this very Christofle collection.

Through collaboration with renowned designer Andrée Putman, Christofle’s Vertigo Collection remains classic, yet takes on modern shapes and designs. The sensual and subtle asymmetrical ring can be seen in every Vertigo piece, such as the contemporary but elegant Three-Ring Candlestick.

Using balance and geometry, the design of the BY Collection is pure and original. The BY Wine Decanter is a marvelous complement to any table.

 

Whether gracing the tables of emperors, princes, or maharajas, on the Orient Express or transatlantic ocean liners, or on your own table, Christofle is a classic that will continue to delight for years to come.

Visit us to see all of our Christofle products.

Have you ever taken an old recipe and added a new, unexpected spice?  Like a pinch of salt on chocolate chip cookies, Medard de Noblat is all about combining the old with the new to create elegant pieces that are both chic and whimsical.

Founded in 1836, this French dinnerware manufacturer takes the art of handcrafted Limoges porcelain and pushes it to new heights, adding unique touches to each collection.  Whether through special shapes or varied patterns, each piece is a revelation.

In classic blue and white, Echappee Belle layers a smattering of designs together to create pieces that stand alone beautifully, but combine in an unexpected harmony.

“Ikebana”, the Japanese art of flower arranging, is the inspiration for the bright, organic pattern of the Ikebana Dinnerware Collection.

Creative and whimsical, Amour En Cage has delicate flowers playing hide-and-seek behind golden branches, softening the bold geometric shape.

Inspired by the texture of round coral, Corail combines age-old French techniques with a modern design, to create “an immaculate table where fashion and tradition co-inhabit with ease.”

Unique in both shape and pattern, Fidji brings the tropical foliage of the exotic Islands of Fiji to your home.

Fun yet sophisticated, the Une Vie De Chien Gift Set depicts four very stylish dogs, and is sure to delight.

 

 

Jars Ceramistes has created the perfect mix of beauty and function: rustic dinnerware pieces that are made entirely by hand, coated with beautiful glazes, and fired at such high temperatures they become durable enough to be used everyday.

Founded in 1857 by Pierre Jars, the Jars factory (located in southern France near Provence) employs no more than 90 workers, so it remains a small and personal  community of craftsmen.

The complex process of creating each item involves the hands of at least 17 ceramists, as well as countless hours of sculpting, glazing and firing.

Heating these stoneware items to temperatures as high as 2340 degrees Fahrenheit causes the the glaze to fuse with the clay, resulting in incredibly durable, scratch-resistant and chip-resistant products.

Inspired by the beauty of Provence, the depth of details and colors in Jars pieces set them apart from other everyday dinnerware.

 

Empreinte features a series of reliefs patterns on a pure white ceramic base:

With its almost-there glazes, Vuelta Ocean Blue is a trip to the sea.

Like all those small treasures we gather on morning walks along the beach, Plume is reminiscent of shells, feathers, rocks and fossils:

Tourron is retro, yet modern:

And although no two pieces are identical, they all work well together.  No matter how you choose to pair them, these versatile items can be mixed and matched to your heart’s content.

To see the entire collection of Jars pieces, click here.

Have you ever wondered why so much traditional porcelain dinnerware is made in blue and white? Mottahedeh has truly mastered this timeless look. The rich, saturated blue seen in this dinnerware is produced by using cobalt, a naturally occurring element.

Discovered in Persia, cobalt was first used by the Chinese before 1200 AD, and is seen in many old porcelains because it was one of the first colors to be fired successfully by ceramicists.

Despite its success as a popular color for dinnerware, cobalt remains a difficult color to use. It must be fired at extremely high temperatures, and achieves different hues depending on the temperature of the kiln. At a low firing, the color appears crisp and dark.  At a much high firing, it has a pale grey look. Mottahedeh’s cobalt is in between these two firings, producing a brilliant blue with violet tones.

Derived from Chinese design, Blue Canton classifies the style of porcelain that was shipped from Asia to England, and then to the homes of the colonial elite in North America.

A symbol of strength and fortune in Chinese culture, the Blue Dragon in this collection captures the movement and versatility of this dynamic and mysterious creature.

Inspired by the 17th Century Ch’ing Dynasty porcelain, the Blue Lace Collection has stunning bands of 22K gold that beautifully complement all of Mottahedeh’s blue and white pieces.

 A prized design since the Ming Dynasty, the Imperial Blue style is based on elaborate Chinese exports to Europe in the early 1700s.

With the delicate perfection of hand-brushed gold dust, the Chinoise Blue Collection stands out because of its sophisticated matte gold finish. Today the word, “Chinoiserie” refers to the decorative style used by Europeans to mimic the look of the original Chinese designs.

No two pieces of these Mottahedeh collections are alike, making each item completely unique. As these styles have been produced for hundreds of years by hand painters, the variation causes them to be perfect complements to any high-fire blue and white porcelain patterns. Mixing and matching these pieces brings them to life in an original way every time you set your table.

There are so many ways to display the beauty of these pieces, whether at your table or on your wall.

When these collections are combined with a touch of imagination, the possibilities become endless.

 As Mildred Mottahedeh would quote an old Chinese saying, “The height of good taste is the simple appreciation of blue and white.”

For more inspiration, come see our blue and white Pinterest board.

In the spirit of all things floral, Flower Magazine loves fresh ways to brighten up your table scape. Inspired by the vibrant hues of Le Jacquard Francais, they have highlighted our Provence Tablecloth in Lemon Green in their Summer 2013 issue as the perfect way to add a splash of color to daily dining.

To get this lively look in your own home, here are a few of our bright ideas:

 

 

 

Wedding season is a busy time filled with excitement and anticipation, and bridesmaid gifts are great keepsakes to remind your closest girlfriends how much you appreciate them.

Designed by French designer Andree Putman, Christofle’s elegant silverplated Vertigo tray is perfect for jewelry, keys, and cards.

In bronze-finished alloy, this architectural vase from Nambe adds a contemporary twist to any room.

With stunning wedge cuts and leaf patterns, Waterford’s crystal picture frames bring a radiant glow to the memories you display inside.

In vibrant hues inspired by Turkish Rugs, this Fresco Towels tote bag is a great gift that can be used over and over again.

Exuding light and warmth, NEST’s Beach Scented Candle has a fresh, tropical fragrance that makes any room feel like an exotic getaway.

In rich blues and greens, Pine Cone Hill’s whimsical wool scarf will remind bridesmaids of your friendship every time they wear it.

With nature and color as Daum’s inspiration, the classic elegance of this Arum perfume bottle adds beauty and refinement to any woman’s home.

 

 

Wedding season is a busy time filled with excitement and anticipation. At a time when family and friends all come together to celebrate, groomsmen gifts are great keepsakes that will always remind your best friends how much you appreciate them.

Not just an ordinary timepiece, the sinuous shape of this Nambe Flame Clock gives a modern touch to a desktop or bedside.

A work of art for the desk, this Gecko Magnifying Glass is an exquisite detail for the office or the home.

A small but special gift, these Natural Bone-on-Wood Dice add whimsy to any game night.

For both practical and decorative purposes, this Cheese Board and Knife Set is perfect for the budding gourmet.

Made with a naturally shed stag antler, this unique English Beer Mug is a conversation starter to use time and time again.

The sophisticated Moser Bar Shot Glasses will make every bar sparkle.

Inspired by the shape of a Champagne bubble, Christofle’s Bottle Opener combines simplicity and masculinity into an elegant design.

And who wouldn’t appreciate Graphic Image’s American Bar, filled with over 500 drink recipes?

For more groomsmen gift ideas, visit Gracious Style.

Set in New York at the height of the 1920s, “The Great Gatsby” embodies the height of sophisticated living. Combining economic prosperity with the popularity of Art Deco and the uproar against prohibition, the home became a center for exhibiting wealth and taste, as well as entertaining. As a member of the elite, Jay Gatsby hosts the most extravagant parties to display the finest in modern luxury.

Here’s how to get the look at home:

These bold and intricate table linens from Le Jacquard Francais showcase the rich color and lavish decoration characteristic of the Roaring ’20s.

Combining geometric designs with exquisite bead work, Kim Seybert’s table runner livens a dining room with both its elegant color and silhouette.

Inspired by the artisans of Venice, the stunning gold designs on this L’Objet Pour Fortuny dinnerware are as ornate as the textiles of designer Mariano Fortuny.

The vibrant Topaz hue and complex glass cut of Moser’s Cubism Double Old Fashioned Glasses bring the flair of Art Deco to any bar.

Epitomizing luxury, Christofle’s water pitcher has an intricate pattern of inlaid gold that brings elegance and glamour to your table.

In a glistening metallic pattern, Waylande Gregory’s mosaic bath accessories add sophistication and charm to your bathroom.

With beautiful embroidered detail, Anali Needlework’s soft, luxurious Italian sateen bedding is the perfect indulgence in both comfort and style.

As one of the most gracious towns in the south, Charleston is a dream come true for the antiques aficionado and the design-savvy shopper.   From the elegant town houses on the Battery to the grandeur of the outlying plantations, inspiration can be found everywhere.

Luckily for us, the design team at oomph has created a new collection inspired by this extraordinary city, and every piece can be custom finished in sixteen different lacquered colors!

The Charleston Side Table combines traditional Chippendale elements with a modern pop of color.

It makes a perfect companion for the Charleston Coffee Table.

Beautifully detailed, the Charleston Mirror is a traditional Chippendale mirror with a chic twist of oomph.  Use alone or in pairs.

To see the entire oomph collection, click here.

A knife edge is a seam without a decorative finish. It tapers to sharp, crisp edges and corners, creating a very simple, clean, polished look.

 

A welted edge also tapers, but it includes a piping or some other type of decorative border or trim.

To view our entire selection of throw pillows, click here.

Is your calendar full of weddings this summer?  If so, we’ve got you covered with a great selection of gifts they’re sure to love.

For the sailor: Inspired by the sea, these embroidered napkins are essential for entertaining at a beach house or on a yacht.

For the entertainer: These whimsical cheese picks are a great gift for newlyweds who love entertaining.

For the at-home bartender: In a set of six vibrant hues, these Moser shot glasses brighten any bar.

For the romantic: A Karim Rashid masterpiece, Nambe’s intertwining candlestick set is a toast to two sweethearts joining to create a new life together.

For the beach-goer: This vibrant Fresco Beach Towel is ideal for a tropical honeymoon, or a day trip to the beach.

For the adventurer: This chrome-foil-finish book, full of the most memorable cars in the world, is ideal for daring newly-weds.

For the traveler: This leopard cashmere travel set is perfect for a summer honeymoon, but will last for all seasons and destinations.

For the nostalgic: This ornate picture frame by L’Objet is the perfect way to keep memories of their special day to treasure for years to come.

For the decorator: Great for the cozy couple, this welcoming loveseat makes any room feel more like home.

For the collector: A perfect addition to home decor, this timeless clockpiece comes in two finishes and can be hung in any room in the house.

Don’t get stuck in a rut of golf balls and neckties! We’ve curated our top picks for Father’s Day 2013. Find stylish and memorable gifts to suit any dad or grandpa on your list.

Horn bookends from Barbara Cosgrove and other desk accessories will add a special decorative touch to his office or study.

For dads who love playing bar tender, decanter tags, bottle openers, and other great bar accessories make perfect gifts.

Fathers deserve pampering too, how about a luxury shaving mirror? Fine combs and shaving products will complete the package.

For all his toys, e-book reader covers, phone covers, and tablet cases are practical yet beautiful in fine European leather.

Spark Dad’s sense of adventure with stunning books about cars, sports, fine liquor and wine.

Think outside the box and make a big impression with a gift of fine art, like a Banknotes print from Natural Curiosities.

More Father’s Day inspiration at GraciousStyle.com.

The Great Gatsby will always get my vote for The Great American Novel.  Here’s the tale of a man from humble roots who reinvents himself to pursue an idealized dream, a lost love from his youth.  But what is Jay Gatsby like?  What was going through his mind as he looked out from his mansion across the Long Island Sound night after night, thinking of Daisy?

Part of the answer can be found in the mansion, for our design choices speak volumes about ourselves.  For the 1974 movie featuring Robert Redford, we see a grand Baroque-inspired mansion. If this looks like a Gilded Age mansion, it’s because it is one — the movie was filmed at Rosecliff in Newport, RI, which was modeled after the Grand Trianon in Versailles and shows the aspirations of the Nevada silver mining heiress who commissioned it:

And here are the ornate European interiors of the ballroom at Rosecliff:

I always thought this was the perfect house for Jay Gatsby.  Having come from humble roots, he wanted to woo back Daisy by becoming someone else: the heir of an old wealthy family.  What better way to do that than move right into the house of one?

Indeed that is the persona that Robert Redford played in the 1974 movie: A passive, if not pathetic, man trying to fit into a world that he did not belong in.  He went to extremes to gather and show off his wealth, in the end he was just trying to fit in with the Buchanans. Notice the similarity of the Gatsby mansion to the Buchanans’ estate, Heatherden Hall:

Fast forward to 2013, and we find Leonardo di Caprio playing a different Gatsby: bolder, stronger, and more assertive.  Here’s his mansion – a fantasy castle reminiscent of the mad Gothic style of Mad King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria:

In contrast, the Buchanans’ home is based on the Greek Revival style popular with the Old South aristocrats (think Gone with the Wind and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello):

Now look at the interior.  The Art Deco look of the famous “shirts” scene might look retro now, but it was in fact cutting edge Art Deco design in the 1920’s.  Art Deco came into vogue in France during the 1920’s as an homage to the new Machine Age.  It was a bold, assertive style of the future (think Chrysler Building and Fritz Lang’s Metropolis), not the past of Rosecliff.

We can also see a bold, Art Deco motif in the floor of the ballroom, along with Gatsby’s initials prominently in the center. Talk about leaving his mark on the world:

 

When we build, we create a world. What kind of world is it, and where do we belong in it? Even before the first stone is laid, we’ve already asked and answered those questions. Gatsby, unfettered by prosaic considerations of cost and resale value, could create anything he could envision. From what he created, we could peer down into the deepest reaches of his soul. Whereas Redford’s Gatsby was trying to inherit a past that was never his, di Caprio’s Gatsby loudly proclaims “Here I am!”  Whereas Redford was timid and uncertain in front of Daisy and Tom, di Caprio has come to take what belongs to him.

Featured in Elle Decor, Food and Wine, or Martha Stewart Weddings – to name a few – the colorful barware of Moser Crystal is beautiful, versatile and durable.

Creating the perfect bar at home doesn’t have to mean choosing function over fun. Moser designs highballs, double old fashioneds, and martini glasses that serve their devine purpose as vessels of that perfect cocktail in a stunning array of jewel-like colors and contemporary patterns. Pebbles glasses have a playful texture etched around the base, with a splash of color that fades toward the top of the glass.

For those who adore color, but also enjoy seeing the shimmer of white wine or the pristine look of a classic martini, Moser creates Lancelot stemware, featuring a brightly colored base with a clear bowl.

Each crystal design has its own unique history, such as Lady Hamilton, which is the so-called offspring of an earlier design commissioned by Pope Pius XI in 1923. Available in solid crystal or with a shining gilded rim, as shown here.

If it’s old-world charm you are looking for, Moser has been delighting Eastern Europe with its crystal for over 150 years. Their dedication to tradition can be seen in their more intricate patterns.

Aside from impeccable bar and stemware designs, bowls and vases are perfect accents in any room, adding color and chic design.

The Globe Vase elevates the youthful underwater motif to high art, shown here in a rich blue that shows off every detail.

The Pebbles Bowl is an elegant complement to Pebbles Glasses from Moser.

View our new Moser collections and learn more about this company’s rich history at Gracious Style.com.

Your mom deserves all the best every day of the year, but Mother’s Day is the time to show extra appreciation! Treat her to luxuries and keepsakes that will make her smile for years to come.

A scented candle from NEST is a gorgeous gift that smells great too!

Nothing feels more luxurious or relaxing than lounging in a big spa robe.

Give Mom beautiful accessories she can use every day.

For the bath…

In the kitchen…

On the go…

A picture frame with a photo of her loved ones is the perfect keepsake for Mom to cherish.

Find more Mother’s Day gifts at GraciousStyle.com.

Understated elegance defines the Corail Gold dinnerware by Medard de Noblat. The editors at Veranda magazine, who appreciate simple luxuries, featured this pattern in the February 2013 issue:

Inspired by the texture of round coral, each piece features a raised relief pattern of naturalistic bumps and ridges, and is accented with a hint of gold. A solid white version is also available.

Is there a defining design style today?  The latest AD cover actually sums it up:

Look carefully, and you’ll notice a traditional chandelier:

On top of a very sleek, modern coffee table:

You see small bursts of exoticism and color, but the primary design is neutral and comfortable

Lest you take this for granted, take a look at what was on the cover of AD in 1970:

and 1971:

Back then, we had sharply divided design styles.  You were either a Traditionalist or Modernist, and there was no mixing of the two styles.  Neither style seemed very comfortable either — could you imagine hopping onto either silk or leather couch on these covers?

In contrast, today’s design has finally balanced both traditional and modern elements and made it all the more comfortable.

Of all the British customs, afternoon tea is one of our favorites.  It’s a perfect time to unwind: not as rushed as lunch, and never as serious as dinner.  Plus, you get to have sweets, savories, and drinks, all in miniature portions, so you can really have one of each.  Enjoy!

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For more inspiration, follow our Afternoon Tea board on Pinterest.

Pink is a very versatile color which really comes alive when combined with other colors.  Soft pinks are soothing, while bright pinks are bold and exciting.  For softness, mix pink with white or cream; for elegance, mix pink with gray; for warmth, mix pink with taupe and gold; for freshness, mix pink with green; for boldness, mix pink with orange or purple.  Take a look below:

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For more ideas, follow our Decorating with Pink board on Pinterest.

The Jacquard Francais story is one of generations of people with a passion for their work. Since 1888 they have created a collection of table linens without equal. Weavers, warp beamers, knotters and other specialists work in harmony to perfect the weaves and colors of all of their table linens.

Traditional techniques and state-of-the-art technology combine to create timeless tablecloths, napkins, placemats and table runners that will beautify your tables for many years.

Le Jacquard Francais coated tablecloths are made of 100% cotton weave with long fibers. They are waterproof and stain-resistant thanks to a patented and exclusive acrylic coating that withstands washing.

Practical and easy to use, these tablecloths will stand up to frequent use for numerous occasions: in the lounge, kitchen or patio.

See all of our Le Jacquard Francais table linens.

We love a clean home, and we want to keep the earth clean, too. But we were disappointed with the quality of natural cleaners. That is, until we found The Laundress! Their naturally-derived cleaning products work great and they are safe for the environment.

The Laundress was started by owners Lindsey Wieber Boyd and Gwen Whiting. Like us, they were dissatisfied with the eco-friendly cleaning products on the market. As they put it, “Tired of buying inferior natural cleaning products or toxic cleaners that were not effective we decided it was time to make our own.”

Lindsey and Gwen were both educated in Fiber Science, Textile and Apparel Management and Design at Cornell University. The used their knowledge of fibers to create fabric-specific detergents that are gentle on clothes, but tough on dirt and stains. They have special detergents for denim, workout clothes, and delicates, among others.

The Laundress detergents are formulated from plant-based ingredients, and do not contain chlorine, petroleum products, or artificial color. They are triple-concentrated which means less packaging waste. You also use less product, which is better for your clothes and the environment, and ultimately saves you money.

We love their Signature Detergent for regular laundry, their Stain Solution for tough stains, and Wool & Cashmere Shampoo for our sweaters. (Yes, you can actually wash cashmere – and it comes out softer than from the dry cleaners!)

Their dusters, brushes, and cleaning cloths are made from natural materials – no plastic or petroleum products.

We are always looking for the best tools to make our necessary domestic chores more luxurious and above all – easier! This ostrich feather duster is what Redecker refers to as the “king of feather dusters”! It is so luxurious, we actually look forward to cleaning now.

Well, almost.

Click here to see our entire collection of The Laundress cleaning products. And get ready to love cleaning…or at least, dislike it a little less.

What is about those Italian guys, always so smooth, suave, and charming?

It might have something to do with the shave: Italian men take shaving very seriously.  The Romans were cleanly shaven and regarded everybody else barbarians — literally, someone with a beard.  During the Middle Ages, barbers in Italy were trusted confidants and advisers, like the barber in Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia.  Today, shaving is truly an advanced art form in Italy, and it shows.  Just look at what a great shave these famous Italians have:

Silvio Berlusconi from DealBreaker.com

The traditional Italian shave is a complicated ritual involving, of all things, olive oil.  Fortunately, Proraso has made this into a simple system for the rest of us.  Here’s how the modern Italian shave works.

First, you dampen your face and apply the Pre-Shave Cream, which softens the beard and helps the razor to slide smoothly over the skin.  Let it rest for a bit and really sink in.  The distinctively refreshing Menthol tingle that Proraso is known for ought to make the little time-out quiet pleasant:

Then, apply your choice of  Shave Cream …

 

… Shave Foam –  this is a smooth and rich foam with just the right consistency, and with it my Gillette Mach 3 is giving me a much closer shave than I’ve ever had before.  Plus, after shaving, it doesn’t leave a thick residue in my razor like my old shaving gel did:

or Shave Soap.

For a truly Italian shave, we recommend the Shave soap, which must be applied with this simple little brush:

Next, wash your face and apply the After Shave, but doesn’t “Lozione Dopobarba” make it sound better?

Proraso also makes specialized products for those of us with sensitive skin

Or who have a beard, “Barba Dura” — masculine yet refined in that Italian way:

Try it, and let us know if your face says “Grazie!”

What’s your favorite holiday jingle?

Ours is I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas, because it makes us laugh every time we hear it.  In the song, 10-year-old Gayla Peevey sweetly asks for a hippopotamus for Christmas, promising she’ll take good care of it in her parents’ two-car garage.  Who could say no?  Not her listeners: The local station that played the song in 1953 raised enough money to present her with a real baby hippo named Matilda.  Peevey then wisely donated it to the city zoo, where her hippo lived to a grand old age of nearly 50.  The song was such a big hit, it was even on the Ed Sullivan show:

If a real baby hippo (weight: 500 lbs) is too much on Christmas morning, here are a couple of stylish alternatives for you to have and enjoy:

Jonathan Adler’s Brass Hippopotamus Sculpture makes the normally rotund creature look graceful, almost aerodynamic.  Perched on a marble base, he should fit in nicely with the rest of your chic family.

Daum’s crystal Hippopotamus Paperweight, on the other hand, is proud of his heft–and for good reason too.  He has the all-important job of guarding your secret papers, and his mighty jaw opens wide to scare away those bills from your inbox.

Chic or fearsome, we hope you’ll experience of the joy of seeing a hippo this Christmas morning!

With a foreword by Sir Elton John, this book evokes luxury from the very beginning. With a knack for beautiful spaces that don’t sacrifice comfort, Lawrence Bullard-who stars in the Bravo television show Million Dollar Decorators-reveals how he creates a sensational home. The designs featured here balance the contemporary with the traditional, the occidental with the ethnic.

View more Interior Design Books at GraciousStyle.com.

When it comes to holiday gingerbread houses, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel really takes the cake.  Every year the pastry chefs there show off with a sugary holiday landscape.  Some years it’s the North Pole.  Other years it’s a little village.

This year, though, they outdid even themselves with a seascape that includes Godzilla, pirate ships, sea monsters, Smurfs, taco trucks, and Santa sunning at the beach.  It’ll be on view until after the Holidays, but if you can’t make it to there, here are some pictures:

Sir Elton John’s love of interior design and gardens is legendary, so it’s no surprise that the luxury candles he has created with NEST Fragrances founder Laura Slatkin are extraordinarily scented and gorgeously packaged.

 

Featuring a festive blend of evergreen evergreen and balsam fir needles combined with rich woods and sparkling citrus, the Sir Elton John Holiday candle is decorated with an etching of a coat of arms belonging to a noble family that lived in Luxembourg during the 1800s. After modifying the design to include gold, red, and green seasonal holiday foliage, calligrapher Bernard Maisner blended in handwritten lettering in a Gothic style from the medieval era and an italic script from the Renaissance period.  For warmth and color, Sir Elton added a deep aubergine color to the glass.

 

 

For a lighter feel, the Woodside Garden candle features a sophisticated and arrangement of notes inspired by flowers from Sir Elton’s floral gardens at Woodside in Old Windsor, England, including hyacinth, freesia, rose, and jasmine.  Housed in a brilliant translucent chartreuse glass container stamped with a regal gold crown, Woodside Garden’s packaging includes lavender roses and green foliage drawn into the artwork.

 

And as an added bonus, a portion of the proceeds from their  sales of these candles will benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

See our entire collection of NEST Fragrances.

We were delighted recently when a customer shared with us her beautiful table setting using our chic black Festival table linens. Here’s what she had to say:

My guests thought the table looked lovely; I agreed with them. I greatly appreciate all your help with shipping it to me quickly. The quality of the linen is fantastic. I can’t wait to see how the fabric improves with age. Also, it was sewn on the grain; not all table linens are. It lays so straight and square in line with the table. My husband and I are delighted with it.

But don’t take our word for it; see for yourself:

Thanks for the kind words, Peggy. We think your table looks very lovely as well!

How have you made Gracious Style products your own? We’d love to see how you put your own stylish spin on things. Drop us a line on our website or post to our Facebook page.

We recently traveled to New York, and we really appreciated how the city keeps getting nicer everywhere you look.  Here are a few pictures from our trip:

We both loved this courtyard in front of the Mondrian SoHo hotel:

Nestled between two lofts (one of which was a Vespa dealership), it looked so calm, relaxed, and … not-New-York-City.

A little uptown, this new building going up in front of L’Ecole and the French Culinary Institute is a great example of how to mix modern with traditional:

It’s unabashedly modern, yet echoes the older building across the street with its streamlined look.

Of course, we couldn’t resist a sign which said “Chocolatier,” so we had to sneak into the Mariebelle Chocolate on Broome Street.  Once inside, it reminded us of Laduree in Paris:

They have a very deep space, and they’ve used mirrors to make it look both larger and brighter.

In general this a good tip to remember: mirrors are a great way to bring in light and make spaces seem larger.

Up in Midtown, this cluster of buildings from different periods and styles look perfectly at home together, just like the people on the streets below — fashionistas next to suits and socialites:

The Plaza Food Hall is now one of our favorite destinations in Midtown.  It’s strategically located across the street from Bergdorf and offers several hip but casual eateries, including a Todd English restaurant.  Even one  Payard Patisserie has made a come back here:

Hooray!

Join us for a Gracious Style sale! Items from some of our favorite tabletop, bath, and bedding collections have just been added to our sale section. Incredible prices on Fresco Towels, Linen Way, Garnier-Thiebaut, and Couzon!

View our complete sale section at GraciousStyle.com

I am not a designer.  But I’ve learned a lot about design, and I’ve grown to love it.

I’m probably your poster child left-brainer.  I went to Wharton and worked as a fund manager, managing investments for pension funds, central banks, foundations, and hedge funds.  I’ve also been writing software since I was eleven, and today, I’m responsible for the technology that runs Gracious Style.

“Designer” was simply never something I imagined myself to be.  Yet, over the last twelve years of working at Gracious Style, I’ve learned a lot about design.  This knowledge of design has opened up my eyes, and  I have a better appreciation of people and culture because of it.  It has also helped me in my other professional endeavors.  From software to real estate development, I can now see that success often hinges on better design.

I think — I know — that there are a lot more people like me out there.  We’re not professional designers, but we innately appreciate good design, even if it’s in the form of a well-crafted deal or a well-designed app.  We’d like to know more about design, but in that structured, top-down, ask-all-the-questions way of ours.

So today I’m starting a new series, “Design for the Analytically Minded,” to share with you how one finance/technology person learned design, what it’s taught him, and why it’s opened his eyes to the world.

– Si Chen

We’ve just spotted one of our favorite brands, Graphic Image, on LuckyMag.com. The Orange Crocodile Leather Dictionary was featured on their list of luxurious school supplies. Take a look!

Mottahedeh just introduced two lovely new patterns for summer. Both collections include dessert plates and cups & saucers in sets of four. Perfect for afternoon tea and cake!

Everybody has been going “nuts” over the first pattern – Nut Leaf. Beautiful, rich green foliage is dotted with different nuts and decorated with 22 karat gold. The set of four dessert plates illustrate the hazel nut, pecan, chestnut and acorn nuts and leaves. The set of four teacups and saucers have the nuts cleverly hidden on the saucer, seen only when the cup is lifted.

The Nut Leaf pattern is getting rave reviews. It was even featured in the spring issue of Martha Stewart Weddings.

The other new pattern is a floral called Lowestoft Garden. The dessert plates, cups and saucers are adapted from a European plate c. 1775 painted in ‘famille rose’ enamels. Highlighted with gold, they look especially lovely when mixed with Mottahedeh’s Apple Lace dinnerware.

There’s never been a better excuse to have some dessert! You can purchase or register for these and more Mottahedeh dinnerware patterns here.

We love learning about what inspires our artists to create the pieces they do.  Here is what L’Objet’s Elad Yifrach said recently about blue and white, and his inspiration for the Perlee Blue dinnerware collection:

Last year I was fortunate enough to sail from Turkey to Greece with a group of dear friends. We called it our own “Blue Voyage”, a time-honored journey across the Aegean originated by the Turkish painter and author Cevat Şakir Kabaağaç, who explored the same waters in the early 1900’s.

 

The journey on a Turkish gulet (those lovely, double-mast wooden schooners) was an experience I will never forget. The images are indelible: azure waters juxtaposed against the pastoral Mediterranean coastline… The warm nights, with stars scattered across the sky like diamonds on indigo velvet… Gentle, hazy mornings, waking to the sound of the waves… And, of course, the fresh, vibrant Mediterranean food!

To read more, read Elad’s post here.

Although Perlee Blue was inspired by Elad’s trip to the Mediterranean, we love that it feels so right for us to use it in California.   We love blue and white, and the strong colors in this collection make it perfect for dining outdoors.

Perlee Blue Dinnerware

To see more of Elad’s dinnerware and home accessories, click here.

CASKATA from rikkiericaportner@me.com on Vimeo.

We love the Houzz.com website for all things interior design. You can browse beautiful rooms and make virtual inspiration boards for your decorating projects. We just heard they are looking for more photographers and writers to contribute to the site.

Click on the link below for more details and to apply:

 
These are part-time, paid, freelance positions. They’re interested in contributors from all over the world. Forward this to a friend if you think they would be interested as well. Good luck!
 

We just received notice that many Alberto Pinto and Anna Weatherley prices will be going up on July 1st.  So if you’ve been pining for the exquisitely hand-painted dinnerware from these two world famous designers, now’s the time!

Here are some of our favorites:

 

To view their full collections, click here for Alberto Pinto and click here for Anna Weatherley.

All orders received before July 1st will be honored at current prices.

Gracious Style is an online retailer of sophisticated, high-quality products for every room in the house.  We love helping others create warm and welcoming rooms for themselves.  To read more, visit our blog.

 

 

 

 

The new Peter Som bedding and pillow collections from SFERRA bring the high fashion of the runway into your home, for a stylishly modern look.  It’s haute couture for the bedroom.

Fashion designer Peter Som is famous for his bold sophistication and eclectic elegance on the runway, which has brought a fresh point of view to the fashion world.  Now he has created a modern, stylish bedding collection with SFERRA, maker of fine Italian linens. “Peter is a rare talent,” says SFERRA owner Paul Hooker, “whose vivid prints leap off the runway and translate beautifully into the home or elsewhere.”

The line features four signature collections which include sheeting, matelassés, quilts, duvet covers, accent pillows and shams. The collection is printed in Italy at one of the world’s most renowned print houses with the design of each bed reflecting Som’s splashy yet refined fashions.  Inspiration was drawn from Spring ready-to-wear collections from 2007 – 2010.

SFERRA’s tradition of the ultimate in quality fabrics and rich colors for bedding, table and bath linens, combined with Peter Som’s mastery of sophisticated yet quirky prints create a brand new way of bed dressing.

 

CHRYSANTHEMUM

Inspired by 30’s French seaside images and the paintings of Christian Bérard, the chrysanthemum print has a light hearted, optimistic feel.  Bold floral prints leap off of the fabric to create a sense of movement and unabashed fun. The splashy yet sophisticated pattern will create a cheery bedroom.  Says Som, “I think anyone would wake up with a smile on their face after a night sleeping in these sheets!”

 

NEWPORT FLORAL

The Newport collection is the best of both worlds – a modern spin on a classic pattern.  A modern take on Marie Antoinette,  the print is a bold and graphic interpretation of a very traditional wallpaper print.  Perfect for the modern bedroom, the collection combines modern ease with an ultra-feminine touch. One version has a boldness in seductive hues of reds, while the other color has an icy chic spin with shades of pale blue and greys.

 

 

DAMASK

A sweet, traditional damask pattern printed out in white on a cool grey, Damask is a favorite of the designer. Based on a traditional period wallpaper from the drawing rooms of Versailles, the warm tones of French grey and ivory create a tonal and nuanced bed ensemble which is also very modern and graphic.  Perfectly matched with the soft earth tones that are popular with modern interiors, Damask will bring a sweet sophistication to the modern bedroom.

The collection, which ranges from $30 – $415, includes sheeting, coverlets, and decorative accent pillows.  To view all the pieces available in the entire Peter Som for Sferra collection, click here.

Gracious Style is an online retailer of sophisticated, high-quality products for every room in the house.  We love helping others create warm and welcoming rooms for themselves.  To read more, visit our blog.

My “Theory of Design”

One of the tricks to successful designs – whether you are thinking about stationery, a restaurant, or a home – is the presence of a common thread in the realization of an idea.  Think about your favorite stores – two of ours are Restoration Hardware and Williams-Sonoma Home – or your favorite movies (“Something’s Gotta Give”).  Within each one, isn’t there always a common theme that carries the message from beginning to end?

At Restoration, for example, the paint colors work with the linens and the bath towels, and the look of the products is consistent within each collection.  The same thing is true with movies.  In “Something’s Gotta Give,” it’s obvious that set decorator Beth Rubino (by the way, The Skirted Roundtable did a great interview with her) had very specific ideas for how the character of the house would be presented on film: a shingled house, simple rugs, white slipcovers, a slightly dented refrigerator door … in short, a metaphor for the busy, successful (yet human) character played by Diane Keaton.  This is how the pros do it, and it’s because it’s the most comforting and practical way to design for the long term.  So as you design your spaces, take some time to think about the big ideas: this way, everything you gather will end up going with everything else, rather than “Well, this looked great at the store but somehow I can’t make it work here.”

But here’s one caveat: the idea is to have things work with each other, rather than to match completely. The best designs are those that work individually, and then as a whole.  Certain designs, for example, work better in large expanses (like wallpaper or curtains) than they do on small pieces (like napkins).  Case in point: utilitarian items are most soothing when they are easily recognizable.  This is why most tubs are a creamy white rather than designed to match our toile shades.

Trina Turk’s Table Linens: An Example

As an example, take a look at the new collections of table linens designed by Trina Turk.  Although she is known for her bold, graphic designs (which we think work well on pillows and rugs), we really appreciated that she took the time to scale them back for the table.  The fact is that the best designs for the table are simple.  There is something soothing and very clean about a white napkin that just doesn’t come across with a busy pattern.  So kudos to Trina for coming up with a collection that complements – rather than copies – her other items for the home, and that is just right for the table.

Here are the collections;  all embroidered on 100% cotton and completely machine washable.  Every piece is under $30 each.

The Palm Springs is a new classic; available in yellow or black:

Oval Sun is a retro motif in orange or turquoise:

And Tiki is great in green or turquoise.

Have fun in the sun!

Gracious Style is an online retailer of sophisticated, high-quality products for every room in the house.  We love helping others create warm and welcoming rooms for themselves.  To read more, visit our blog.

To continue on last week’s post on Trina Turk’s pillows, this week we are showing you her collection of pure wool rugs.  As you might expect, these are sensational and full of bold color, and perfect for mixing with her retro designs.  They are inspired by her love for sunny, bright, poolside looks and perfect from Palm Beach to Palm Springs.  And what’s great is, the line is accessible – every item is under $200!

The Coachella rug looks great against the orange Spectacles pillow:

And aren’t these Butterfly rugs gorgeous?  They look like the delicate Asian cutouts, and they come in green, orange, pink, and black.  Best of all, they look good horizontally or vertically:

Kids love the Zig Zag, in blue or pink, but look how grown-up it looks against next to a cabana: